Duluth, Minnesota is located on Lake Superior 150 miles north of Minneapolis and St Paul.  Historically the city was a booming industrial port, with much of the economy supported by large cement, steel, and wire factories.  As foreign competition increased Duluth found its economy declining rapidly, suffering a similar fate of many industrial cities in the United States.  By the early 80’s, Duluth turned its efforts towards tourism in an effort to stimulate the struggling economy.  Never considered a hot sport for tourism, primarily because of the frigid weather, and long winters, city officials began a downtown revitalization.  Streets were repaved with red bricks, buildings were connected with climate controlled skywalks, and warehouses along the waterfront were transformed into boutique shops, restaurants, and hotels.  The city’s largest revitalization took place in an old warehouse district known as Canal Park which was transformed into a trendy tourist orientated area.  

Canal Park
Canal Park is a destination hot spot and a highly recommended stop for any traveler visiting Duluth.  Offering a variety of popular restaurants, and shopping don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Duluth Pack Store, Grandmas Saloon and Grille, or the Dewitt-Seitz Marketplace.  In addition, to offering a variety of restaurants, and shops, The Canal Park Lake Walk also offers one of the best ways to see the scenic beauty of Duluth.  The 3 mile lake walk offers walking and biking trails, along the beautiful shores of Lake Superior.   One popular point of interest along the walk is the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center which is a free service operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Located near the aerial lift bridge, the museum overlooks the Duluth Superior Harbor.  Many visitors enjoy seeing the large freighter ships that pass within 200 feet of the museum underneath the Aerial Bridge, which lifts up to allow them to pass through.

Where to Stay
There is no shortage of places to stay in Duluth.  Along the lake walk visitors can find hotel options ranging from the luxury tier to more budget friendly bed and breakfasts. One very popular hotel is the Canal Park Lodge.  In addition to having one of the best locations in the city, the 116 unit hotel, offers balcony rooms that overlook Lake Superior.  The hotel provides direct access to the Canal park lake walk, as well as being located only a short distance from downtown Duluth.   The hotel tends to fill up quickly, so make your reservations well in advance if you intend to stay at this property.    For the more budget conscious traveler, check out Hampton Inn Duluth Canal Park. The 109 lakeside room hotel offers some great amenities including an indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast each morning.  Prices are very reasonable, usually starting around $85 per night, moving only slightly higher during peak seasons.  

Need an Excuse to Go
Duluth offers a variety of annual events each year. Check out the annual events held in Duluth click here.